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Public Policy

Social Sciences

Taught

MSc

  • Overview
  • Application Timeline
  • Tuition
  • Requirements
  • Modules
  • About
  • Subject Area Information
  • Career
  • Similar courses

Overview

The MSc Public Policy degree at the University of Reading equips students with essential skills in policy making and administration, integrating insights from economics and politics. It offers five specialized pathways addressing key public policy challenges. Students can tailor their education through core and optional modules, culminating in a dissertation.

Application Timeline

  1. September 1, 2025
    Start date
  2. August 27, 2026
    Today

Tuition

Whole course
Student categories Study
Full-time Part-time
England£11,750£11,750
Northern Ireland£11,750£11,750
Scotland£11,750£11,750
Wales£11,750£11,750
Channel Islands£11,750£11,750
Republic of Ireland£11,750£11,750
EU£25,850£25,850
International£25,850£25,850

Requirements

Entry Requirements:
Language Requirements

Language requirements information is currently unavailable.

Modules

  • Economics of Public Policy

    Core
  • Politics of Public Policy

    Core
  • Philosophical Issues in the Social Sciences

    Core

About

Gain the tools to understand and assess public policy with our MSc Public Policy degree at the University of Reading. This interdisciplinary course equips students with essential skills in policy making and administration, drawing insights from both economics and politics.

Impact of Public Policy

Public policy decisions influence various aspects of life, including:

  • Health
  • Welfare
  • Housing
  • Education
  • Security
  • International Development
  • Energy and Climate Change

Specialist Pathways

The MSc Public Policy program offers five pathways that address major public policy challenges. Students can choose to specialize in one pathway or combine core and...

Subject Area Information

Public policy is a multidisciplinary field that encompasses the analysis, creation, and implementation of policies designed to address societal issues. Courses in public policy equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand complex social problems, develop effective solutions, and implement these solutions within governmental and non-governmental organizations.

Typical Course Structure
  • 1. Introduction to Public Policy

  • 2. Policy Analysis and Evaluation

  • 3. Economics for Public Policy

  • 4. Public Administration and Management

  • 5. Ethics and Public Policy

  • 6. Environmental Policy

  • 7. Health Policy

  • 8. Social Policy

Typical Skills Acquired
  • Analytical Skills
  • Research Skills
  • Communication Skills
  • Ethical Reasoning
  • Leadership and Management

Career

A public policy discipline offers a comprehensive education that prepares students for a variety of roles in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, graduates are well-equipped to tackle the complex challenges facing society today.

Potential Professions
  • Policy Analyst

    Conducts research and analysis to inform policy decisions.

  • Public Affairs Specialist

    Manages communication between organizations and the public or government.

  • Government Advisor

    Provides expert advice to government officials on policy matters.

  • Non-Profit Manager

    Oversees programs and initiatives within non-profit organizations.

  • Urban Planner

    Develops plans and programs for land use in urban areas.

  • Environmental Consultant

    Advises on policies and practices to promote environmental sustainability.

Similar courses

Contact

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Whiteknights House, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6UR
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Contact

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Whiteknights House, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6UR
Get expert guidance

Enhance your academic journey with the help from our experts.

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